Describing Species: A Practical Taxonomic Procedure for Biologists

The process of describing species is a fundamental part of taxonomy, the science of classifying and naming organisms. Species are the basic units of biodiversity, and they play a critical role in the functioning of ecosystems. Describing species is also essential for conservation, as it allows us to identify and protect endangered species.

This book provides a step-by-step process for describing and naming new species. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is illustrated with numerous examples. Describing Species is an invaluable resource for taxonomists, biologists, and conservationists alike.

Describing Species: Practical Taxonomic Procedure for Biologists

by Sherene Shalhub

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4831 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	542 pages

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Step 1: Collecting specimens

The first step in describing a new species is to collect specimens. Specimens can be collected from a variety of sources, including field surveys, museum collections, and online databases. It is important to collect representative specimens from a variety of populations and habitats.

When collecting specimens, it is important to record the following information:

• The date and location of collection
• The name of the collector
• The habitat where the specimen was collected
• Any other relevant information, such as the behavior of the organism or its diet

Step 2: Examining specimens

Once you have collected specimens, you need to examine them carefully to identify their distinguishing characteristics. This can be done using a variety of techniques, including microscopy, dissection, and DNA analysis.

When examining specimens, it is important to look for the following characteristics:

• The size and shape of the organism
• The color and texture of the organism
• The presence of any distinguishing features, such as spots, stripes, or patterns
• The behavior of the organism
• The diet of the organism

Step 3: Writing a species description

Once you have examined your specimens, you can write a species description. A species description is a formal document that describes the distinguishing characteristics of a new species. The species description should include the following information:

• The scientific name of the new species
• A detailed description of the organism's morphology
• A description of the organism's behavior and diet
• A discussion of the organism's distribution and habitat
• A comparison of the new species to other closely related species

Step 4: Publishing the species description

Once you have written a species description, you need to publish it in a scientific journal. This will make the description available to other scientists and allow them to verify your findings.

When publishing a species description, it is important to follow the guidelines of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN). The ICZN provides a set of rules for naming and describing new species.

Describing species is a complex and challenging process, but it is also an essential part of taxonomy and conservation. This book provides a step-by-step process for describing and naming new species. Describing Species is an invaluable resource for taxonomists, biologists, and conservationists alike.

References

1. International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN). (2012). International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. London: The International Trust for Zoological Nomenclature.
2. Mayr, E. (1969). Principles of systematic zoology. New York: McGraw-Hill.
3. Sokal, R. R., & Rohlf, F. J. (1969). Biometry: the principles and practice of statistics in biological research. New York: W. H. Freeman.

Describing Species: Practical Taxonomic Procedure for Biologists

by Sherene Shalhub

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4831 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	542 pages

FREE